Sean Hehir was the stand-out performer for the Irish in the London Marathon yesterday, the 32-year-old Clare man carving more than a minute off his personal best to clock 2:16:18.

Hehir, a former Dublin Marathon champion, finished 19th overall, in a race won by Daniel Wanjiru of Kenya in 2:05:48. Hehir's time was well inside Athletics Ireland's standard of 2:17:00 for the World Championships in London later this year.

He was followed closely by Rio Olympian Kevin Seaward, who clocked 2:17:08, Stephen Scullion (2:17:59) and Mick Clohisey (2:18:34).

Laura Graham was the leading Irish finisher (2:42:38) in the women's race, which was won by Kenya's Mary Keitany in 2:17:01.

Sergiu Ciobanu was in action at the Hamburg Marathon, but after falling off his pace over the second half of the race, which was run in wind and hail, he stepped off the course shortly before 22 miles.

Meanwhile, at the National Road Relays in Dublin, Queen's University Belfast caused an upset in the women's race, taking the title ahead of UCD and Letterkenny.

The men's race produced a thrilling finale as Conor Dooney of Raheny outsprinted Eric Keogh of Donore Harriers on the final leg, the hosts adding the men's title to their win in the overall team event.

Letterkenny took an impressive win in the F35 category, setting a record en route, courtesy of some strong running from Annmarie McGlynn.